south east asia Archives - Honest Explorer

Thailand

Spend a night on Khao Sok’s Floating Bungalows, Thailand

14/03/2019 17 Comments

A guide to the most pretty national park in Thailand!

We race past huge limestone cliffs covered with thick green rainforest, reflecting in the bright, turquoise water below. We sail past a tour group swimming under the cliffs and I can barely contain my excitement at wanting to jump straight in the cool water. The warmth and humidity of the hot sun beating down on me as my hair catches the breeze. So where am I? Khao Sok National Park of course.

boat to Khao Sok National Park, Thailand — Heading For Khao Sok

Where is Khao Sok National Park?

Khao Sok National Park is situated in Southern Thailand, close to Surat Thani, Krabi and Phuket. The rainforest, limestone cliffs, wildlife and waterfalls of Khao Sok are perfect exploring grounds for anyone who loves nature, trekking and wild swimming.

You can arrive by mini bus, shuttle buses from nearby towns or book an organised tour to guide you around. I’m on a Thai Intro tour group and after arriving to Surat Thani via the sleeper train from Bangkok, we get a mini bus to the National Park.

on the boat to Khao Sok National Park, Thailand — Cruising…

Arriving at the floating bungalows…

Cruising past the beautiful park on our motor boat, we arrive at the floating bungalows. I have to pinch myself. The place is surrounded by the lush rainforest covered cliffs and a lake with some of the clearest water I’ve seen. Oh and it really is that gorgeous turquoise colour!

Khao Sok National Park, Thailand — The very green rainforest

My tour group is happy and eager for a swim in the fresh and crystal clear water. We are shown to our simple wooden huts, which only contain a mattress on the floor, but really, what more do you need?! This is nature at it’s most pure and to wake up with that view is truly special.

North Thailand: Pai or Chiang Rai?

swimming, Khao Sok National Park, Thailand — Having fun in the water

There are also more expensive huts and rainforest resorts on the other side with beds and private toilets for those who want a little more comfort. But seeing as I will probably be outside for most of the time, I’m happy with my little hut. Fishes swim close by the huts where you can just jump straight into the water. This is just paradise.

The group makes use of the free canoes and tubes and we spend the afternoon lounging around in the water, chatting and floating in the inflatable tubes with a beer in hand. All meals are included and can I just say that the food is amazing! The fried squid with crispy batter was delicious! And fresh fruit in the mornings (yum). I eat well tonight.

Excuse the face! Foods obviously good.

It’s the following morning and I force myself to get up for sunrise to take pictures while the lake is deserted and still. No-one else is up, all is calm, the only sound being that from the singing birds. I feel a sense of peace being the only one up and having this experience to myself.

Look at that reflection!

After breakfast me and the tour group try cliff jumping into the water. Terrifying at first but I managed to jump! After this thrilling experience we enjoy a last swim in the lake and then its time to depart. I wish I had more time here to do some jungle trekking and just to unwind a bit more but my one night here was incredible. Back on the boat with the sun on my face and wind in my hair, I reflect on this unique experience, looking forward to the next adventure.

More on Thailand: 8 Things to do in Bangkok

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Laos

2 Day Slow Boat Down the Mekong, Laos

01/05/2018 1 Comment

A popular and cheap way to journey between Laos and Thailand, the 2 day slow boat allows you to enjoy the simple pleasures of the South East Asian landscape. Leaving from Luang Prabang in Laos, my tour group with GAdventures set off to join a family house boat for a 2 day long journey along the Mekong River.

The Mekong River flows through 6 countries from China to Vietnam and is essential to the locals who live there. Getting on at Luang Prabang I wasn’t sure what to expect. Luckily our group of 15 had the boat to ourselves so we had a lot of room. It’s a simple boat with chairs similar to seats on a coach, and then a table, small food preparation area and toilet at the back. It’s not the most comfortable seating but at least you can get up and walk around. After being introduced to the captain, his wife and small daughter, we started our journey.

slowboat laos — With the caprains daughter

I prepared beforehand with lots of water and snacks as it can be pricey on the boat. The group spent the first few hours chatting, gazing out the window and just taking it all in. I just watched the scenery breeze past, wind in my hair, staring at the lush jungle, small villages and fishermen. It felt very authentic drifting past these tiny villages, people watching and admiring the privilege of seeing these humbling towns.

A few hours into the journey, tired and bored I put my music on and gazed at the landscape, day dreaming as per usual. Later we played some cards with the local guide to pass the time. I also taught the captains young daughter how to play ‘memory’, her face lighting up every time she matched a pair of cards.

After around 8 or 9 hours we arrived at Pakbeng, a tiny little village marking the half way point of our journey and where we stayed the night. We jumped off the boat, immediately being greeted by what appeared to be the entire village children and teenage boys. They pulled and poked us trying to get our money in exchange for them carrying our bags. As we had transport organised we politely declined.

Pakbeng, Laos

Our accommodation was a small and very basic guesthouse. There were at least 2 geckos in my room which is fine as long as they don’t move! If you are arriving independently there’s no need to book in advance as rooms are readily available and very cheap. The main street is mostly basic accommodation and small cafes and restaurants and I like that it’s in keeping with the quiet boat ride along the river.

Day 2 is pretty much the same, another long day but even though the scenery is pretty much the same the whole time, it never seemed to tire. I travelled in monsoon season so as the rain hit I just watched and listened to the sounds, drifting off as we lazily drifted down the river. I like that time on the boat is a break away from the hustle of constant travel; a chance to read a book or just sit and think. Sometimes when travelling we don’t get the chance to just sit and reflect. It’s only once we’re back home that we realise what an incredible adventure we’ve just had.

Small villages on the Mekong river — Small villages on the Mekong

Baci Ceremony

During the second day the captain and his wife perform a ‘Baci Ceremony’ for all of us. This Laotian custom is said to bring back spirits to the body, keeping your health and happiness and is usually performed before big events such as a wedding or travel. It will bring us good luck along our way.

We made small, coconut rice candies, wrapping them in banana leaf and then folding them into triangles ready to be cooked. They came back out on a centre piece and we listened to the captain giving the blessing. He then tied 3 pieces of string around each wrist before saying another prayer, binding the spirits in place. Theses strings should be kept on until they fall off naturally.

Making sweet treats

Bringing good luck

So my journey along the Mekong came to an end as we arrived in Huay Xai, where we caught a tuk tuk to the border crossing into Thailand. Even though it was a long boat ride it really gave a glimpse into Laotian life and was a chance to relax and just take in the nature all around. Yes, at times it was boring but if I had the choice of a 1 day bus ride or the 2 day slow boat I definitely know which one I would pick!

Heading into Thailand from Laos? Check out North Thailand: Pai or Chiang Rai?
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Vietnam

Exploring Vietnam’s Chu Chi Tunnels

30/04/2018 No Comments

Learn about Vietnam’s history…

Near Ho Chi Minh city in Vietnam, the Chu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam war. Complete with hiding places, secret ventilation spots hidden beneath bushes and even a concealed underwater entrance. To deter the enemy the soldiers used spikes and trap doors to scare off intruders. Conditions were grim with sickness and an infestation of rats and various harmful creepy crawlies. Soldiers slept and ate down there with areas for a kitchen and living space.

chu chi tunnels vietnam — Going into the tunnels

Today it has been turned into a tourist attraction and visitors can even walk through some of the underground tunnels. They are incredibly claustrophobic and so small in some parts you need to crawl though on hands and knees. The staff will also demonstrate how the traps were used. There are exhibits and videos to watch for more information about the history behind the tunnels.

chu chi tunnels hiding — Trying to fit in one of the hiding places

chu chi tunnels trap door with spikes — Trap with spikes

Practice your shooting…

You can also head to the shooting range where you can practice your aim. The shots can be heard from a distance and even with the headphones it’s very loud! You buy a set off bullets and then fire at targets with an AK47.

If you have half a day then a visit here is for sure worth a visit, if only to gain a greater understanding of Vietnam’s history and get hands on.

How to Get to the Chu Chi Tunnels?

For the adventurous you can grab a local bus or you could hire a taxi or motorbike. I think the easiest way would be to book a tour when in Ho Chi Minh as it’s a popular day trip from the city. It will take just over an hour from Ho Chi Minh.

More things to do in Vietnam…Cruising Through Halong Bay, Vietnam

Thailand

8 Things to do in Bangkok

28/04/2018 2 Comments

Bangkok is one of my favourite cities, its full of life, culture and cheap eats.

You can embrace your cultural side by visiting temples and floating markets whilst still enjoying Western style comforts. Not to mention they have a great transport system with train announcements in English (yay!). It’s fun just to go on the sky train, weaving through the tall buildings (and also to cool down, trains = freezing!). Here are some popular things to do (plus 1 unusual one).

Visit Wat Pho (Temple Of Reclining Buddha)

Wat Pho is a really pretty temple close to Grand Palace and home to the reclining Buddha, 46 metres in length and covered in gold leaf. The Buddha is massive and you can also buy coins to place in several bowls along the wall, making a wish for every coin. A great way to donate to the temple and to embrace your spiritual side! Take in the peacefulness as you stroll around the beautiful complex filled with hand carvings, incense sticks and statues. You can also climb up a set of steep stairs to get wonderful views of the surrounding area.

Reclining Buddha Bangkok — Reclining Buddha

Bangkok River Cruise

This is a great way of seeing the city from a different perspective, whether you take a day or night cruise, you’re bound to spot something you would have otherwise missed. Or you just simply use it to people watch which is always fun.

Learn How to Cook

Book yourself in for a Thai cooking class and learn how to cook delicious dishes from fresh ingredients. They make it easy and fun for you to learn, plus lunch (cooked by yourself) is included!

cooking bangkok — Have fun at a cooking class

Khao San Road

This is the main backpacker street in Bangkok where everyone seems to end up, full of cheap bars, street food and entertainment. It’s always busy here day or night- probably more so in the night when the tourists are out partying. There’s always souvenir and clothing stalls so you will definitely get some cheap deals here. This street is packed with atmosphere so worth a visit even if you’re not much of a party person.

Go For Cocktails at Lebua, State Tower

This is a beautiful sky bar overlooking the entire city. The views when I got to the top literally took my breath away. If it looks familiar you may recognising it from the film The Hangover. Cocktails are quite expensive at around £10-£12 but defo worth it if you’re just going for a couple. Listening to the live band whilst taking in the views was one of my highlights and worth a visit.

Views from Sky Bar Lebua

Sky Bar Lebua Bandstand

Grab Yourself a Bargain

There are many places to shop in Bangkok and they each offer a different experience. I personally love shopping around the Siam area which is in the business district. They have nice western shopping malls with well known brands. Central world and Siam Paragon are really nice and air conditioned with good shops and entertainment facilities. They also have loads of places to eat and a gourmet food market with all kinds of nice treats on offer. There’s also MBK which is a huge market style centre with many bargains and Platinum Mall being good for cheap fashion finds. You can haggle for the prices at some stalls too.

Relax at Lumpini Park

This is a really nice park to get away form the hustle and bustle of the city. Even though you can still see the city it’s nice and peaceful here and great for jogging or just sitting with a picnic, plus its right next to the public train lines.

Lumpini Park colourful temple offerings — Temple offerings Lumpini Park

Wind Down at the Cinema

This may sound like an odd suggestion as your probably thinking ‘I didn’t travel all the way to Thailand to go to the cinema’, but if you only have a short amount of time here and have seen most of the usual sites then it’s a great way to kill time. On the other hand if you’ve been on the road for a while it’s nice to just do something you do at home. It’s strangely comforting! I know Siam Paragon, Central World and MBK all have cinemas and they are like half the price of what you pay at home which is a great bonus! Basically all the movies are played in English as well and you can stock up on cheap ice cream and snacks too, yummy.

Bangkok cinema

Siam Paragon shopping

Extra… (if you have time for 1 more thing!)

Siriraj Medical Museum (for something a bit quirky)

Maybe a controversial choice as it’s a bit different. It’s basically where they preserve human bodies and even baby fetuses, amongst other stuff. Not for the faint hearted but I find this stuff so interesting! Unfortunately I didn’t have time to visit as it’s hard to get to. But if you can get someone to write down the name in Thai to show the taxi driver it would be helpful. This is something different to do in Bangkok, especially if you’ve been here several times and looking for somewhere new to explore.

Is there anywhere I’ve missed or interesting places you’ve been in Bangkok? Comment your recommendations below!

Heading north from Bangkok? Check out North Thailand: Pai or Chiang Rai?

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Cambodia

Catching the Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia

28/04/2018 No Comments

Angkor Wat?

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and one of Cambodia’s biggest attractions, surrounded by a lush jungle. If you only have a short time in Cambodia then a visit here is a must. Built during the Khmer empire around the 12th century, Angkor Wat is estimated to have taken 30 years to build. The sheer size and intricate architecture is breathtaking and a trip here will be sure not to disappoint.

Catching the Sunrise

Is Angkor Wat worth the 4am wake up call? Ermmmm… absolutely YES! You want to be on time for this one to get a good spot amongst the photographers. Watching the sun slowly rise behind the temple results in a beautiful silhouette that’s mirrored in the pond below. A photographers dream!

Sunrise Angkor Wat, reflection on the water — Arrive for sunrise for those reflection pics.

The temple gradually begins to glow a golden, illuminate orange as the sun rises higher in the sky. Walking around the huge complex I can appreciate the incredible detail of the carvings on every single wall and pillar. It feels like as step back in time and amazing to think this was built so many years ago. Photography spots are at every opportunity. Tip: At 5am it’s already heating up so be prepared with water and snacks.

Angkor Wat Sunrise — THE sunrise picture

Angkor Wat walls, siem reap — Surrounding Walls

Time and cost to visit Angkor Wat?

It can take the whole day or longer to explore everything in Angkor Wat but 3 hours is a good if you’re on a short time frame. I did Angkor Wat for sunrise then headed back out in the afternoon to visit the surrounding temples. You can hire a tuk tuk for the day (around $30). Ticket prices (as of 2018) in USD are $37 for a 1 day pass, $62 for 3 day pass and $72 for a week pass. I did the 1 day pass but would have loved more time to explore more temples as there are so many, so maybe the 3 day would be preferable.

Tour Group at Angkor Wat — Group at Angkor Wat

Best time to go to Angkor Wat?

I went during July which is wet season but still had great weather in the morning and there were probably fewer crowds. The rains tend to come in the afternoon so it’s still possible for a great sunrise during monsoon season. The best time weather wise is late November to March (December & January busiest months). April and May will be very hot and humid. I would recommend the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds but still with the possibility of good weather.

Photographers lined up, Angkor Wat — Photographers lined up for sunrise

For anyone visiting Cambodia, whatever time of the year, Angkor Wat, although crowded, is an absolute must. There is a reason why Angkor Wat is so popular, simply put- it’s just stunning. You don’t need to be a history buff or even particularly cultural to enjoy this beautiful monument. If there is one thing to do in Cambodia then this is up there. A really great insight into ancient Cambodia culture with stunning photo opportunities to match. For pictures of more beautiful sunsets check out Sunrise or Sunset? The Best I’ve Seen.

Cambodia

Angkor Wat’s Surrounding Temples: Tomb Raider Style

28/04/2018 No Comments

Time to explore the temples of Angkor Wat…

Although Angkor Wat is the main attraction, the archaeological park houses numerous more temples to explore in this huge and exciting complex. You could get lost for days here exploring all the temples. I only had 1 day so did Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple in the morning and then Ta Prohm and Ta Keo in the afternoon. If you have enough time I would recommend at least 2 full days exploring this fascinating area.

Ta Prohm Cambodia — Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia

Ta Prohm: Have You Seen the Bum Tree?

Better known as the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ as this is where Angelina Jolie filmed Lara Croft: Tomb Raider back in 2001. This of course has made Ta Prohm temple very popular but it’s still definitely worth a visit regardless of the crowds. The old temple ruins have been surrounded by roots from the trees, as the jungle makes an effort to reclaim its former wild status, capturing the crumbling rocks in its grasp.

My visit was during wet season and the afternoon rains had already started. It actually made this place even more atmospheric and I kinda felt (in a really geeky way) like I was on the movie set of Tomb Raider, exploring this remarkable temple barefooted on the slippery jungle floor. Our tour guide points out what he calls ‘the bum tree’, a tree that’s naturally formed into what looks like a naked bum, making us all giggle like primary school children. When I watched Tomb Raider back after seeing this, Angelina Jolie actually walks past with the bum tree in the background- look out for it!

Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia — The bum tree

Angkor Thom and Bayon

Angkor Thom, meaning ‘great city’ was the last capital of the Khmer Empire and houses the Bayon temple. It’s surrounded by a moat just like Angkor Wat. The entrance is fascinating enough, walking in via the south gate, each side is carved with stone figures that line the length of the path.

Bayon temple Entrance

I make my way through the gate and onto the Bayon temple known as the ‘temple of faces’. This impressive complex has many faces carved into the walls at all angles, the eyes and glare of the statues following and holding your gaze. The more you look, the more faces you will see. This was a fun temple to explore.

Ta Keo Temple

One of Angkor’s oldest temples, Ta Keo has five levels and reaches over 70 feet in height. It doesn’t have much decoration or carvings, suggesting it may actually be unfinished. It’s known for it’s steep steps which allows tourists to climb.

I did prefer the other 2 temples but this was still worth a visit and interesting to climb to the top and see views of the surrounding areas -note- it WILL be slippery in rainy season! This large temple is noticeably different with the lack of intricate architecture like the other tempels, which gives a more ‘stripped back’ view of the Angkor structures.

Ta Keo, the unfinished temple.

View from the top of Ta Keo

What ever temple you choose to visit I can guarantee you will so much fun exploring these ancient ruins. Have you been to the Khmer temples? Which one was your favourite? Let me know below.

More Reading: Have You Been to Cambodia’s Rabbit Island?

Cambodia

Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor

26/04/2018 No Comments

Siem Reap is a small but busy town and the base for most tourists visiting Angkor Wat. This was one of my favourite towns, with lots of activities, shopping, nightlife and friendly locals. It’s a great town for backpackers but also catering to all budgets. There is a lot of nightlife with cheap drinks and western style bars/ clubs where you can dance the night away after a long day of temple trekking.

Heading into Siem Reap…

My tour group enjoys a local meal cooked by members of the local community at ‘The New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant’ which was started by tour operator GAdventures. They also fund the health centre and community school next door, where international volunteers can teach English. We enjoy a local cuisine sat on the floor and try other more ‘interesting’ options such as crickets (mmmm yummy). Everyone gets an early night in preparation for visiting Angkor Wat the following morning. Siem Reap is only a 15 minute drive away so the perfect base for temple exploring.

After a long morning of walking around temples, I get a massage by the blind. This was quite a humorous experience to say the least. We walk into a local woman’s house where there are 3 massage tables, and children running around in the next room. They are completely blind so instruct us to get on the bed, using hand gestures. She feels with her hands, patting along my body, I guess to figure out which way my head and feet are situated. Then her phone rings and she answers whilst still resting her hand on my bum, bit strange!

As my massage starts one of the kids climbs up onto my bed by my feet before she hurries him off. Not off to the most relaxing of starts! Actually throughout the massage they probe and pull and click various parts of my body. I’m either in pain or giggling as it’s so tickly. However, after my ‘ordeal’ I do actually walk out feeling pretty good! We had to place the money in their hands which I thought was very trusting and quite wonderful as they can’t see the note your giving them. Definitely an experience worth having I reckon.

Siem Reap, local restaurant cambodia — New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant

I head into town, where I do a bit of shopping, bargaining my way through the various stalls and getting the best price for my hippy backpacker trousers. I enjoy the walk around town, the locals all very friendly and smiling back. My groups heads for a ‘fish pedicure’ which there are several lined along the main street. Essentially you stick your feet in a tank of fish, while they nibble you. It’s a fun little thing to do though and very cheap. In the evening we head to a restaurant for dinner and then onto one of the backpacker bars. Managed a dancing spot right by the big fan so I was set for the night!

One thing I wished I had visited is the Tonle Sap floating markets, along the river. Unfortunately was on a tight schedule but that’s one thing that seems worth doing. Siem Reap is a destination in itself, apart from just being the base for Angkor Wat. It’s got a certain charm about it and whilst being touristy is still a quaint town worth visiting.

Here’s more information on nearby temples in Siem Reap.

Bar in Siem Reap main street

More Reading! Have You Been to Cambodia’s Rabbit Island?

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Cambodia

A Must Do: Riding Battambang’s Bamboo Train, Cambodia

25/04/2018 No Comments

Although being made increasingly popular by the bamboo train, Battambang is a city in North-western Cambodia, not frequently visited by travellers- but it totally should be. Cheap eats and delicious milkshakes are to be had in the market and the town is surrounded by beautiful countryside. Accommodation here is cheap too, I had a basic room (4 mattresses on the floor) for £1.50 each! There are also gorgeous hotels and guesthouses that are pretty well priced also.

battambang town centre cambodia — Main street, Battambang

Hostel in Battambang

The bamboo train is a popular activity for travellers to do in Battambang. Actually they have recently made a new track, opened in 2018 which is still very similar to the old track. The bamboo train is like a raft made of bamboo that’s been placed on metal wheels, powered by a small motor. Travelling along a single track, reaching speeds of up to 50kph, the train takes you through beautiful countryside.

The bamboo train, cambodia — The bamboo train

Sitting at the front I hold on tight and once the train picks up speed I cannot not remove the smile that has spread widely across my face. We rush past green fields and trees, even through pretty white butterflies fluttering beside. It’s so enjoyable I just can’t stop laughing as it picks up speed.

We have to stop at along the way though as another train was approaching. If there’s more people on the train from the opposite direction, then everybody has to get off, then they lift the whole train from the tracks, let the other train past and then put it all back together again!

Taking the train off the tracks, bamboo train cambodia — Taking the train off the tracks

After a short ride we reach a local village for a stop before heading back, I assume because they want us to buy something from them. But still, the locals are very friendly and we get a little tour of their brick factory from the small children.

Girl from local village

Being shown around the brick factory

They excitedly show us around their village, talking with surprisingly good English and then make us jewellery from bamboo which was so sweet. They don’t ask for money for them which I thought they might, they seem to just be having fun showing us what they can do. Whether or not its because we bought a few drinks and souvenirs from them- I’m not sure however!

Making jewellery from bamboo, cambodia — Making jewellery from bamboo

With the local kids

Local village girl

After a while we get back on the train and explore some more of Battambang, exploring a cave used during the Khumer Rouge times (quite sobering but informative) and then visiting a temple with stunning views of the countryside. Battambang is quite big with a fair few western style places to eat and well as local hangouts (the local club was pretty interesting!). So come and explore Cambodia’s relaxed countryside and of course, you cannot leave without riding the famous bamboo train!

countryside battambang cambodia — Gorgeous countryside

Discover more amazing places in Cambodia…How to Spend 36 Hours in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Cambodia

Is Sihanoukville, Cambodia Worth a Visit?

25/04/2018 No Comments

Sihanoukville shorelineSihanoukville, on the Southern-West coast of Cambodia, has mixed reviews and depending on what you’re looking for you will either love it or hate it. Known for being a party town with ever increasing casinos and resorts, it’s a backpacker hangout suited for a young crowd. However, it is the gateway to Cambodia’s south islands which are much much nicer and quieter then the beaches of Sihanoukville. This is where it redeems itself.

So what’s Sihanoukville like?

The town of Sihanoukville is not exactly the prettiest and the Russian mafia are known to occupy some parts, although seem to be dispersing and making way for Chinese investors. Although not hugely dangerous to visit you do have to watch out for bag snatching here. Many thief’s will swipe bags whilst on motorbikes so keep your belongs away from the roadside. The main beach is lined with restaurants and no doubt the street kids selling things will immediately run up to you. There are also many woman on the beach offering cheap pedicures and foot massages. This can get irritating if you just want to relax on the beach.

getting harassed by sellers on sihanoukville beach — Sellers on Sihanoukville beach

The beach at night was quite good however with tables on the beach to sit and eat dinner and then a fire show and music afterwards. You will still be hassled by sellers but they will give up eventually.

Fire show on the beach, Sihanoukville, Cambodia — Fire show on the beach

And the good part of Sihanoukville?

The best part for sure though was actually getting off the mainland and heading for one of the surrounding islands! For me, the only reason I would go back to Sihanoukville is to head out to one of these paradise islands, away from the big crowds. And there are many to choose from.

I went to Koh Russei (Bamboo Island), which is 3 miles off the coast of the mainland, a tiny island about a mile long. It has a rugged beauty to it and our tour group were practically the only ones there at the time.

Sihanoukville, Cambodia — Walking the island

We walked through the jungle to the other side of the island and went for a swim before a lovely picnic on the beach. It couldn’t be further from the busyness of the mainland and was a chance to relax and have a fun beach day without being interrupted by people trying to sell you something.

Summed up…

So although I might not recommend Sihanoukville per say, I would definitely suggest visiting one the islands for those ‘paradise’ pictures and escape the crowds. I like that these islands are not as developed as the Thai islands feeling much more authentic. So what are your thoughts? Love it or hate it? Comment below …

If your in Cambodia you can’t miss Angkor Wat.